LAX Airport: Everything you need to know before you fly
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world.
With its prime location on the west coast of the United States, a stopover or departure from this airport is bound to occur in your travels. Before you fly, here’s what you need to know.
Table of Contents
- Getting to LAX
- Best way to get to LAX
- Once you’re ready to leave, make your way to LAX-it
- How to get an Uber or Lyft from LAX
- Exhausted? Catch the free LAX-it shuttle bus
- How often does the LAX-it Shuttle bus come?
- The airport is part art gallery
- LAX doesn’t sleep
- Where can I exchange currency at LAX?
- Things to do during a layover
Getting to LAX
The airport is located about 15 minutes (18.1 km) from Santa Monica, 20 min (29.0 km) from Downtown LA and 29 min (22.4 km) to Hollywood. But since it is LA, always allow plenty of time in case of traffic.
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Best way to get to LAX
There are plenty of ways to get to and from LAX, but some transportation modes are better than others. Using rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are simple and not too expensive. Otherwise, public transportation or a scheduled bus service is another option. If you’d prefer to be picked up curbside, you’ll need to order a black car service like BlackLane.
LAX-it Shuttle Bus zone.
Once you’re ready to leave, make your way to LAX-it
Pronounced “LA Exit”, LAX-it is a centralised 24/7 area where travellers departing the airport can grab a taxi, Lyft or Uber.
How to get an Uber or Lyft from LAX
Uber, Lyft, and taxis pick travellers up from the LAX-it parking lot, located outside LAX’s Terminal 1 (next to the Park N’ Fly). The area is painted bright green – you cannot miss it.
Exhausted? Catch the free LAX-it shuttle bus
If your plane arrives at the Bradley International Terminal, it’s about a 20 minute walk to the LAX-it area. If you’ve got a lot of luggage, there’s a green LAX-it shuttle bus that can take you to the pick-up zone on the lower/arrivals level.
The LAX-it buses are also equipped for those with wheelchairs or walkers.Simply wait with your luggage at the designated area (you will see a sign) and the bus will take you to the LAX-it pick up area where you will wait for your ride.
How often does the LAX-it Shuttle bus come?
The LAX-it shuttles are scheduled to arrive every 3-5 minutes during peak hour.
Craft in America-LA Made.
The airport is part art gallery
If you need something to do on a layover, check out the airport’s art displays. Travellers passing through Terminal 1 at LAX are treated to four new art exhibitions, ranging from murals to photography, sculptures and paintings.
The iconic Los Angeles Airport sign.
LAX doesn’t sleep
LAX is open 24 hours, however check-in desks and security screenings can open anywhere between 4am. to 5am, depending on when the last flight is for that day. The check-in counters usually closes between 11:30pm. to 2:30am.
Where can I exchange currency at LAX?
According to the LAX website, ICE Currency Exchange kiosks are located in the upper/departure level of all terminals, and are also located in the lower/arrival level of terminals 2, 5, 6, and Tom Bradley International Terminal.
In n out Double Double cheeseburger with animal style, burger with protein style, and french fries in a tray.
Things to do during a layover
If a lengthy layover is on the cards and you’re keen to explore the area, there’s plenty to keep you occupied. If you’re history buff, head on over to the LAX Imperial terminal for the flight path museum and learning center.
If you’re craving something other than airport food, this nearby In-N-Out has an outdoor sitting area where you can enjoy their famous burgers with animal fries while observing the jets nearby. If you simply want a change of scenery, Venice Beach is just a 15 minute drive from the airport.
See also:
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